Calla lilies (*Zantedeschia spp.*) thrive in moist, well-drained soil with partial to full sunlight. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (6.0–7.0) and are often grown in USDA hardiness zones 8–10. When selecting companion plants, it’s essential to choose species that share similar environmental preferences to ensure harmonious growth.
Companion plants should complement the calla lily’s elegant foliage and blooms while supporting its growth. Below are some ideal pairings:
Ferns, such as maidenhair fern (*Adiantum spp.*) or Japanese painted fern (*Athyrium niponicum*), thrive in similar moist, shaded conditions. Their delicate, lacy foliage contrasts beautifully with the bold, glossy leaves of calla lilies, creating a lush, textured garden bed.
Hostas (*Hosta spp.*) are excellent companions due to their shade tolerance and varied leaf textures. Their broad, variegated leaves provide a striking backdrop for calla lilies’ upright blooms, enhancing visual interest in shaded or partially shaded areas.
Heucheras (*Heuchera spp.*), or coral bells, offer vibrant foliage in shades of purple, red, and lime green. Their low-growing habit and tolerance for moist soil make them ideal for planting around calla lilies, adding color contrast and ground cover.
Astilbes (*Astilbe spp.*) thrive in moist, shady environments and produce feathery plumes of flowers in summer. Their soft textures and pastel hues complement calla lilies’ sleek, sculptural blooms, creating a harmonious woodland aesthetic.
Impatiens (*Impatiens walleriana*) are shade-loving annuals that bloom prolifically in moist soil. Their bright flowers in pink, red, or white provide a cheerful contrast to calla lilies’ more subdued tones, making them ideal for container or border plantings.
In sunnier locations, calla lilies can pair well with plants that tolerate similar light conditions while enhancing their visual appeal.
Daylilies (*Hemerocallis spp.*) are hardy perennials that thrive in full sun to partial shade. Their vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers bloom alongside calla lilies, extending the garden’s color palette and bloom time.
Salvia (*Salvia spp.*) offers spiky, drought-tolerant blooms in shades of blue, purple, or red. Their upright growth habit contrasts with calla lilies’ curved stems, creating dynamic visual interest in sunny borders.
Grasses like fountain grass (*Pennisetum spp.*) or blue fescue (*Festuca glauca*) add movement and texture to calla lily plantings. Their fine foliage and airy seed heads provide a soft contrast to the lilies’ bold forms.
Not all plants make good companions for calla lilies. Avoid pairing them with species that prefer dry, arid conditions, such as succulents or lavender, as their watering needs conflict. Additionally, aggressive spreaders like mint (*Mentha spp.*) can overwhelm calla lilies’ growth.
When designing a calla lily companion planting, consider height, texture, and bloom time. Taller plants like astilbes or daylilies can serve as backdrops, while low-growing heucheras or impatiens fill in the foreground. Group plants with staggered bloom periods to ensure continuous color throughout the growing season.
